UT Arlington (20-12), the No. 4 seed, takes on top-seeded Louisiana-Lafayette (27-5) on Saturday. The Mavericks lost twice to Louisiana-Lafayette in the regular season.

The Mavericks led all the way, built a double-digit lead by the midpoint of the first half and held a 43-31 lead on Appalachian State by the break.

Neal was 13 of 18 from the floor, making six of eight 3-point shots, and sank all five free throws as well. Neal scored 13 in the opening 20 minutes, while Appalachian State shot 33 percent for the half and 34 percent for the game (23 of 68). The Mountaineers were just 2 of 22 from distance.